Are Basketball Shoes Good for Running?

Basketball involves plenty of running back and forth.

And for this reason, many ask: Are basketball shoes good for running?

Generally speaking, you will want a pair that will let you run comfortably and support your feet at the same time.

With that said, there are also some debates between basketball shoes vs running shoes.

To help you make up your mind and choose the right pair, let’s talk about this shoe type in more detail.

Are Basketball Shoes Good for Running?

If you consider how one plays basketball, it’s pretty evident that they are indeed made for running.

As such, we can confidently assume that you can wear basketball shoes for running or jogging.

The problem is, if you plan to participate in marathons, wearing basketball shoes might not be the best idea.

When To Wear Them for Running

Still confused? Here are a select few instances where basketball shoes would be a great alternative to running shoes:

1. When They Come With Great Cushioning

Running is more challenging than you might first think, and they are incredibly demanding on your feet.

It may look simple and effortless, but it actually puts your heels under constant shock and pressure.

Because of gravity, your heels will have to bear up to 2.5 times your body weight when you are running.

Yes, that is the amount of weight your heels have to carry when running or jogging, which is also why you need cushioning for your feet.

Basketball shoes are known to possess exceptional cushioning.

It would depend on the style or brand, but most basketball shoes come with even more support on heels and ankles.

If they can provide the same support as your running shoes, then it wouldn’t be an issue if you use them for running.

2. When You Are Overweight

Running shoes offer support and comfort.

However, if you’re overweight, you might need to wear basketball shoes to make up for that extra weight.

Are you going back to running after a very long time?

If so, you might need to wear basketball shoes for the first few runs to allow your feet to adjust.

They offer great heel and ankle support, and they have excellent traction as well.

Stability is also crucial when you’re overweight.

Just imagine all those basketball players who are all tall and heavy. They can still run back and forth on the court without tumbling and getting off-balanced, right?

The reason behind this is that basketball shoes provide better stability regardless of your weight.

You can run on them for a while, but we still recommend switching to running shoes once you’ve shed a few pounds.

3. When You Are Only Running Short Distances

Can you run in basketball shoes? Yes, definitely, but you should not use it for long-distance running.

If you are a passionate runner or an athlete, running shoes are definitely better for you.

However, if you’re just a regular guy who likes to run short distances for health purposes, you can opt for basketball shoes vs running shoes.

Basketball shoes are also a good choice for those who run around one to two miles a day or less than eight miles a week.

Basically, they are heavier than running shoes, so it won’t be a good idea to run long distances while wearing them.

4. When You Have Another Basketball Shoe for Indoor Playing

You can wear basketball shoes for running only if you have another pair you use solely indoors.

After all, once you start wearing a particular shoe for running outdoors, it is not a good idea to use them indoors.

The traction will decrease faster when used outdoors.

Hence, if you use your basketball shoes for running and then wear them to play basketball indoors, you will see a big difference in terms of grip.

5. You’re Not Running on Concrete, Sand, and Snow

Can basketball shoes be used for running on concrete? Unfortunately, no.

It’s not a good idea since concrete is almost 10 times harder than asphalt.

As a result, running on them would deliver huge impacts on your heels.

Can you run in basketball shoes on snow and sand?

Again, no. Snow can get very slippery, and it would make your shoes heavier as you run.

As for sand, it is possible. However, your feet might sink because of the extra weight from the basketball shoes.

6. When It Fits You Perfectly

If you look at basketball shoes vs running shoes, you won’t come across huge differences.

Weight is definitely a significant factor. However, when it comes to safety and comfort, they are almost the same.

If your basketball shoes fit you perfectly, then you don’t need to worry.

You can just wear them for running, again, only as long as you don’t run long distances.

7. When You Don’t Have Running Shoes

Running shoes are made for serious runners.

If you don’t have one but only have basketball shoes, there’s no need to spend extra money on getting one.

Unless you plan to run 10 miles or more every week on a consistent basis, it’s not a good idea to buy running shoes.

This statement is especially true if you have limited funds, as they often come with a hefty price tag.

For their comfort and support level, running shoes are definitely an excellent choice.

Even so, don’t force yourself into buying one if you don’t plan on being serious about running.

Obviously, if you do, it will only be a waste of good money.

What Is the Difference Between Running Shoes and Basketball Shoes?

Running shoes and basketball shoes don’t have a lot of differences.

The former is lighter and smaller, while the latter is stiffer and heavier.

They are also made with forward motion in mind, so you can’t expect any support on the sides.

On the other hand, basketball shoes are stiffer and heavier because they provide side support.

Your feet perform many different motions when playing basketball, so it needs all the support it can get to prevent injuries.

Can basketball shoes be used for running?

Yes, but you can’t wear running shoes for playing basketball because your feet will be prone to injuries.

The chances of damaging your shoes are also higher because of the unpredictable movements in the court.

Are Basketball Shoes Bad For Your Feet?

No, basketball shoes are actually one of the best kinds of footwear you can invest in.

They are incredibly versatile because they provide both support and comfort.

Nevertheless, if you are a runner, you are better off wearing running shoes instead.

You spend most of your time jogging and running, so the extra weight from basketball shoes will only add to the pressure on your feet.

Can We Use Basketball Shoes for Daily Use?

Yes, a lot of people wear basketball shoes for daily use because of their unique designs.

If you’re working in the office, wearing basketball shoes won’t be a bad idea since you won’t do a lot of walking or running.

It’s heavier than running shoes, but if you’re not going on a hike or spend the whole day walking and running, it won’t be a big problem.

Conclusion

So, are basketball shoes good for running?

Yes, they are a good alternative for those who want to jog or run to improve their health.

It’s not too restricting, and although it’s a bit heavy, the extra weight is manageable.

As long as you don’t spend the whole day running around the neighborhood in your basketball shoes, then you’re good.

The best part is that, with the additional protection and comfort, you would be less worried about injuries.